A week had passed since Penelope Featherington went out to Hyde Park to promenade with her suitor, Lord Debling. Though the man had been vocal about his interest in her, he was unable to come visit and call on the youngest Featherington for the recent week as the latter caught up with a cold and fever. The dowager baroness had instructed Penelope to take her rest up on her bedchambers until any signs of ill would be removed from her person. After all, it would be such a shame if she, as the proclaimed jewel of the season, were to be missing on the Queen's mid-season ball.
Moreover, Penelope kept on repeating the events that took place at her leisure walk. Her conversation with Colin Bridgerton, him telling her his intentions of courtship kept on ringing in her head, making the headaches worse for the past days.
"Miss Penelope, a parcel has arrived with your name on it." Penelope heard her maid, Lily, knocking on the doors of her bedchambers.
"Come in." The redhead stood up from the settee as she could see the servant putting a large box at the edge of her bed.
"What is that, Lily?" Penelope asks her maid despite her idea on what the big parcel was. With its big rectangular size of a box, she gathered it may be a dress. But the pattern and the color of the said box were different from that of Madame Delacroix' shop.
"A dress, my lady." The youngest Featherington were not even surprised that their servant had already known what the content of the package was. For Penelope knew that with the nature of her mother; the baroness had already checked the delivery before it made its way to her.
"I do not think we have commissioned a new one from the modiste.." There was confusion from the redhead's tone.
"It was from a suitor, Miss Penelope. From a Lord Thoms Debling." Lily enthusiastically says. Onc could tell from the maid's expression how excited she is for her lady to receive such a grand gift from a wooer. "Should I open it, miss?
"I think we should." Penelope was also expectant to see what the clothing would look like. After all, it was the first time she received such kind of gift.
Lily removed the cover of the box and gently pulled the dress to lay it onto her lady's bed. It was a beautiful champagne blue ball gown. Its neckline was low yet relatively accepted within society rules. The design was highly elaborate but not too loud unlike the usual designs Lady Featherington imposes on her daughter's dresses. The fabrics used were of high quality; a combination of satin, velvet and silk with metallic trims. The hem of the dress was accentuated with beadwork and lace. The cut was exquisite, narrow fitting to the part where it would highlight Penelope's curves. Silver linings and butterfly embroidery were embellished on the bust area, giving a nod to the Featheringtons' family sigil. The waist belt also had pearls stitched to them. Lord Debling had also included an Ivory fan and a pair of gloves with the same hue of the dress' colors.
"Oh, Miss Penelope! It is so beautiful! Lord Debling must have a really good taste!" Lily blurted out happily. She feels thrilled to have her lady wear such an extravagant and glamorous dress for an outing.
"Yes, it truly is." Penelope was equally happy and astonished by the earl's gift. She thought that as long as her clothing would be freed from the obnoxious floral patterns of yellow, it can be considered pretty. But seeing such a magnificent garb in front of her eyes, makes her new wardrobe seem like plain dresses of a common folk.
"Oh, my lady. A note." Lily hands Penelope a handwritten note that was included in all the contents of the box. Penelope Featherington gently grabs it and a pink blush on her cheeks appeared soon enough.
-x-
My Dearest Miss Featherington,
I hope this missive finds you well and in good spirits. It has been a week since our last meeting, and the absence of your presence weighs heavily upon my heart. I find myself longing for the warmth of your smile and the light of your eyes, yearning to be reunited with you once more.
In the hopes of brightening your day, I have taken the liberty of sending you a gift – a gown of exquisite beauty that I believe will complement your grace and charm perfectly. It is my sincerest wish that you wear it to the upcoming Queen's ball, where I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you shine amongst the assembled guests.
Though we have been apart for too long, know that you are never far from my thoughts. My days feel incomplete without you by my side, and I eagerly anticipate the moment when we can be reunited once more.
Until then, know that you hold my heart in your hands, and that I remain ever devoted to you, now and always.
Yours faithfully,
Thomas Debling
-x-
Seeing that her lady's attention had been immersed on the note that she received, Lily excused herself as she put back the dress and stored it on its box, keeping it on Penelope's closet cabinet.
The youngest Featherington took the space on her bed, laying down on her back as she re-reads the handwritten note from Thomas.
"Devoted to you, now and always." That last line struck at her, knowing all of Thomas' efforts during their courtship. Though they were unable to meet and see eye-to-eye due to her poor health for the past days, Lord Debling did not miss to convey his thoughts to the redhead. He made sure to always drop by every morning to deliver fresh flowers and some of her favorite pastries. He has been diligently doing it by person instead of just having his valet do the errand. And she has come to know this since her mama and their butler, Briarly informs her of the earl's visit.
Suddenly, memories of their last meeting dawned on Penelope's recollection. She could not forget the sadness she saw in Lord Debling's eyes as he was forced to leave her in the care of another man. She had wanted to run back to him so as to not let their outing end at such point. But after her conversation with Colin, Penelope Featherington felt sick as if all the intakes she had since morning were trying to escape her lips. Thus, prompting her and her mama to leave the park and return home.
As she continues to ponder on the events of the past week, Penelope's thoughts inevitably drift to Lord Debling and the secret he alluded to during their last encounter. The memory of his words lingered on her mind, tantalizing yet elusive, like a puzzle waiting to be solved.
"What does he have to confess, I wonder?" Penelope asks herself. Her brilliant mind races with possibilities, each one more intriguing than the last. "Could it be a matter of family heritage, a hidden connection to nobility or royalty that he has kept concealed for fear of judgment, or would it be a bastard child conceived out of wedlock?" These thoughts fill Penelope Featherington with a flutter of anticipation. She vows to seek out her suitor at the earliest opportunity, eager to unravel the secrets of his heart and to discover the truth that lies hidden with his words.
St. James Palace
A day passed and all prominent members of the ton have heavily prepared to attend Queen Charlotte's mid-season ball. Her Majesty had been bored for the last couple of weeks, as the only noteworthy social event she had come to take interest in, was the one hosted by her friend, Lady Danbury. For it was where she was able to see and pick a jewel from the rubbish pile of members of the ton. The ball is held at St. James Palace where the Queen herself and along the prince regent were confirmed to be in attendance.
All invited guests were expected to present themselves in front of the Queen upon their arrival to show respect, much to the Queen's delectation. As she takes this opportunity to either question, compliment or humbles her subjects in retort.
The prominent families from entire London had started to arrive at the dark hours of seven. Each of the family names, together with their representatives were called and announced by the Master of Ceremonies.
As expected, all eyes were focused when the Bridgerton name was called and presented. Led by Anthony, the Viscount, together with her new viscountess, Violet Bridgerton had her unwed children confidently approach her Majesty's seat. Queen Charlotte greets them impassively.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present Miss Prudence Featherington, Miss Penelope Featherington and the right honorable Lady Featherington!" The doors of the palace hall opened wide to show the entrance of three redheads.
Similar to their close neighbors, the Featheringtons were able to gather the gazes of all attendees as they walk along the carpeted path towards her Majesty's seat. Portia Featherington could not believe all the attention they were getting. She knew it was because of her youngest, Penelope. Proclaimed as a jewel of the season, everyone is curious on what Queen Charlotte would have to say to the young lady. Alongside that, the redhead mama recognizes the astonishment of the ton as they see Penelope's appearance. Wearing the gown Lord Debling has gifted her, Penelope's look tonight was stunningly beautiful. The dress fits her curves perfectly, making a point of her assets to be highlighted. The jewels and pearls embellished on the fabric shines elegantly at the reflection of the palace hall's light, making the young lady glow more and radiant. Her hair was neatly fixed in an updo with a diamond tiara placed to fold her locks.
Everybody was murmuring on their places how enchanting and gorgeous Penelope Featherington is.
"Your Majesty." All three redheads greeted the royal in unison.
"Rise." The Queen says.
"Thank you, your Majesty." In good fortune, Prudence was able to avoid fainting as they were relieved of their curtsy.
"Ah, Miss Penelope Featherington. You grace us with your presence this evening." Queen Charlotte intones, with her voice carrying the weight of authority as she acknowledges the redhead's presence.
Her Majesty's stares settled at Penelope and could not help but be struck by the transformation that she had since their last meeting. Penelope's beauty, which has been overlooked by the past two seasons, now shines with a radiance that cannot be denied. With a rare flicker of approval, the Queen allowed herself to acknowledge her enchanting looks.
"Miss Penelope, you appear positively resplendent this evening. It seems the season's emerald has truly come into her own." Queen Charlotte's compliment hangs in the air, for it was a rare moment of praise from her who was known for her strict demeanor.
The surprised murmurs that rippled through the crowd attest to the rarity of such words, and she observed with satisfaction as the young redhead lady's eyes widened in astonishment at her unexpected approval.
"My... your Majesty." Penelope almost stammers, being momentarily taken aback by the Queen's unexpected compliment. She was caught off guard by those rare words uttered by the monarch, and she struggles to find a suitable response.
"Thank you, your Majesty. Your kind words honor me greatly, and I am deeply humbled by your approval." Penelope Featherington managed to reply, her voice trembling with a mix of astonishment and gratitude, all while giving the Queen another of her curtsy. Queen Charlotte satisfyingly smiles at her emerald as she lets the next group of attendees be announced.
Still reeling from the shock of receiving praise from the Queen herself, Penelope along with her sister and her mama steps back to give way for the next guests.
Half an hour later, the music can be heard echoing throughout the palace halls. Majority of all invited nobility had come in attendance and the dances for the program will soon commence. Penelope Featherington could not help but feel worried as she could not see a sign of Lord Debling's being. She knew from the note he sent her that he will be attending tonight's social gathering. She scans the crowd, looking for a golden-haired gentleman despite being aware that the Master of Ceremonies have not called the Earl of Beverley's family name yet.
"Penelope! Where have your eyes been wandering to? Are you trying to make yourself faint?" Portia Featherington inquires of her youngest as she sees Penelope's head turning left to right.
"Forgive me, mama. I was merely trying to look for Lord Debling, to see if he had arrived." There was a hint of disappointment on Penelope's voice. Despite Penelope's suitor not having his appearance yet, the dowager baroness was not showing signs of worry as she could see a few names listed on her daughter's dance card. Meaning, Penelope was still in demand among the interests of the ton's bachelors.
"That so? Well, it would be a shame if he will not be in attendance. All, with his efforts of dressing you up." Portia says as she casually brushes off her fingers on Penelope's dress, trying to fix the flow of her dress skirt which were wrinkled as they squeeze through the crowd.
Before Penelope could imagine unfortunate things that might have caused Thomas to miss the ball, the doors opened wide as the Master of Ceremonies announced the arrival of one esteemed guest.
Lord Thomas Debling, the Earl of Beverley, entered the Queen's ball and there was a hush that fell over the crowd. The officer, with a flourish of his hand and a voice that carried through the grand palace hall, announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you, his Grace Thomas Debling, the Earl of Beverley, and the esteemed Duke of Northumberland!"
Gasps and murmurs rippled through the assembled guests. Many exchanged bewildered glances, for the few times they have seen Lord Debling for this year's social season, they had only known him as the Earl of Beverley. The revelation that he held another, higher title sent whispers dancing through the room like gentle breezes.
Lord Debling, undeterred by the sudden attention upon him, strode confidently towards the Queen's seat at the head of the ballroom. His expression was one of calm composure and a dignified look on his face. As he reached the Queen, he executed a deep and respectful bow.
"Your Majesty." Thomas said, his voice carrying the weight of both titles he bore. "Forgive my tardiness. It is an honor to be in your presence once again."
The Queen smiled graciously, acknowledging his greeting with a nod. Lord Debling is one of those whom she and King George had been entirely fond of. Aside from growing up as a playmate for the prince regent, Thomas Debling is part royalty from her mother's connection as King George's cousin.
"You are always welcome in my court, Thomas." The Queen replied, her tone warm and regal. "Though I could not help but notice the whispers that followed your entrance. Pray, tell me, is there anything amiss that I should be made aware of?"
Her Majesty's words are delivered with a blend of concern and curiosity. From her seat, she could see her subjects slightly stunned by Debling's arrival.
Lord Debling's expression became more composed yet earnest as he answered the monarch. "Your Majesty, I must confess that the murmurs may stem from a recent decision of mine. I have chosen to introduce myself within high society solely as the Earl of Beverley, rather than revealing my full title as the Duke of Northumberland."
Thomas pauses as his gaze meets the Queen's with a sense of sincerity. "It was a decision made in the interest of maintaining a degree of anonymity and simplicity in my interactions, your Majesty. I hope you understand my intentions and find no offense in my choice."
"I am intrigued, young Duke. Pray, tell me, how were you able to conceal your true identity as the Duke of Northumberland from the prying eyes of high society?" The Queen's question is posed with genuine interest. She knew that the man had very few appearances at the parliament, mainly because of his role as lord protector of the northern border territories.
Thomas inclines his head respectfully in response to the Queen's inquiry. "Your Majesty, I have sought the counsel and assistance of Lady Danbury in navigating the intricacies of high society without revealing my true title." His voice remained measured and composed.
"Lady Danbury, with her wealth of experience and influence, proved to be an invaluable ally in guiding me through the social intricacies and ensuring that my true identity remained discreet." He continues as his expression conveys gratitude towards the Queen's trusted friend. "I am deeply indebted to her for her assistance in this matter, and I am grateful for the opportunity to re-enter society on my own terms." Lord Debling concludes, his tone respectful and sincere as he addresses Queen Charlotte.
The latter gives a glance towards the direction where Agatha Danbury stands. Meeting the gaze of the Queen, Danbury nods her head and smiles as the duke's secret was finally revealed for all to hear.
"I understand your reasoning, my dear. Indeed, as a man of your stature and influence, you would undoubtedly become the target of every matchmaking mama in London should they know that you are a Duke with ties to royalty." Gasping sounds from shock and surprise echoed loudly inside the hall as the ton learns that Debling has connections with the royalty.
Queen Charlotte briefly pauses as her gaze considers Thomas' predicament. "It is only natural that you would wish to avoid the overwhelming attention and pressure that comes with such unwanted advances. Rest assured, your desire for discretion is understandable, and I commend your foresight in seeking the counsel of Lady Danbury to navigate the complexities of society. May you find success in your search for a suitable wife, without the undue interference of overzealous matchmakers." Her Majesty concludes, offering him a reassuring smile.